INFLUENCE OF BIOCHAR ON ROOTING AND ESTABLISHMENT OF CHAMAECYPARIS AND THUGA SPECIES

This study investigated the effects of biochar amendment on the rooting and establishment of evergreen propagules, thus addressing the critical need for improved nutrient use efficiency and water retention in containerized substrates within the horticulture and floriculture industry. Biochar, a product of biomass pyrolysis, offers promising potential due to its high porosity and surface area, which contribute to enhanced soil fertility and water retention. Two experiments were conducted, one in a greenhouse and the other in a cold frame, using cuttings from Chamaecyparis obtusa, Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Vintage Gold’, and Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’. Treatments included varying percentages of biochar in peat-based and perlite-based potting mixes, compared to controls. After months of growth, plant biomass was assessed, along with water-holding capacity of treatments. Results consistently showed a positive correlation between biochar and propagule growth. The 25% biochar treatment significantly outperformed the control in both experiments, demonstrating greater root and shoot biomass.